Dwarka Parichay has been serving residents over a decade by providing latest news, events, useful information and business promotion in and around Dwarka region.
Install Mobile app @link: http://bit.ly/2cPbv9h & read latest news-events on the move
*Dwarka Parichay is not responsible for the comments/views/ articles of writers * Copyright Dwarka Parichay 2018

Search latest news, events, activities, business...

Monday, March 31, 2014

We at POLICE WATCH INDIA are pretty aware about the fact that how much toll taking is the embarrassment that the Police Chiefs & other Senior Police Officers have to bear as a result of the stricture like cognizance taken by the Judiciary (on & off record) of the I.O.s Non-Investigations, Superficial, Shoddy & Shady Investigations and the otherwise callous & inhuman approach shown by them towards their duties as assigned to them.

OR -- IS IT THAT SENIOR POLICE OFFICERS TOO HOOT CARE ABOUT THIS HEINOUS DOWN TO EARTH REALITY BECAUSE IT DOES NOT AFFECT THEM & THEIR KITH & KIN???????

To put an end to this menace it is advised that INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATIONS AUDITORS be appointed by all Police Departments in all the States as well as at the Home Ministers Office at the Central Government level as also at the Judiciary level.

The Work Profile of the INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATIONS AUDITOR in brief should be as follows : -

To audit the Investigations conducted by Police Departments, the Vigilance Departments of the Police Departments and to review their policies and procedures with respect to Criminal Investigations.

To look at things such as tactics. It’s the job of the Independent Investigations Auditor to make recommendations about changes in Police Departments’ policies and procedures, as regards Criminal & other Investigations conducted by them.

Will be involved in reviewing the trigger happy shootings, police performance, and how their Vigilance Department investigates complaints against Police Officers/Personnel themselves.

Review their investigations and databases and look carefully at the numbers. How many complaints are sustained, how many aren’t & why, what type of discipline is issued, and how often. Is it appropriate discipline? These are the types of things that will be looked into.

There is this huge push for change i.e. all expressing a need for change. The Central and State Governments coming in as well. The Police Chiefs who understand and are experiencing the need for change want to have change, and they would want confidence levels on the part of citizens to soar in their respective Police Departments. The huge momentum for change is there, for something special and positive.

Well that is going to be the goal of oversight....transparency. So that there is someone besides just those in the department looking at the investigations and looking at all of the functions on a daily basis. To review and critique the investigations and to tell the public through unbiased reports whether or not the police investigations were thorough and complete.

The Investigations Auditor will show the Investigating Officers how he is going to critique them, to get their input as well. It won’t be just a one-way street, as the Investigations Auditor will be letting them know how he is going to critique them by using their own rules and regulations. He will be going to go out to the scene of the crimes; from start to finish. See the evidence as it lies there. See the crime scene; hear what the initial story is about and what supposedly happened.

Lastly, see the complete investigation and then be able to tell the public & others about it.
That a consent decree between the Investigations Auditor & the Police Chiefs will govern & basically outline the duties of the Investigations Auditor as well as what to do on a day-to-day basis. There will be requirements of the police department as well as requirements of the Police Chiefs office that he will have to meet. The consent decree is all about compliance and reports that show the level of compliance.

It all will revolve around trust. The trust that others can count on the Independent Investigations Auditor to do what has been said and does it without any bias and/or prejudice. He won’t be a talking head or in cahoots with the Police Department. People should know that he will be independent of the police department and will be hard in critiquing them. He shall be straightforward and want complete & proper investigations conducted so that guilty don't go unpunished.

The police department will have to trust him in what he writes to them. The Police Chiefs & their subordinates will need to be able to trust him and say yes. Lastly, the department should be able to relate to him. The Independent Investigations Auditor should never have any problem talking with anyone at any level. The Independent Investigations Auditor shall have nothing to hide in this process, and would want the Police Chiefs to know exactly what he is doing so he can shine a brighter light on that process.

The maximum time within which the Independent Investigations Auditor shall give his findings shall be 3 (Three) months & there shall be no provision for extension of time for any reason whatsoever.

The JUDGES OF THE TRIAL COURTS & HIGHER COURTS could also obtain the services of The Independent Investigations Auditor where ever it deemed necessary by them for the purpose of fair & just deliverance of Justice to the Aggrieved.

The selfless work of the Independent Investigations Auditor would eventually bring glory to the Police Departments as well as restore the trust & confidence levels of the Police Chiefs & their Subordinates in the eyes of the "AAM AADMI".

IT IS IMPERATIVE TO ENSURE AT ALL COSTS THAT THE "INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATIONS AUDITOR" IS NOT A PRESENT OR PAST MEMBER OF ANY POLICE FORCE OR ANY OTHER LAW ENFORCING AGENCY.

The "Independent Investigations Auditor" should be one who understands the psyche of police personnel, their weak & strong points, knows the fundamentals of investigations & investigation procedures & techniques, has reasonably good knowledge of all types of laws & to that extent need not necessarily be a lawyer.

We on behalf of over 6 lakh residents, over 300 CGHS Apartments and over 45 DDA Pocket RWA's in Dwarka Sub-City along with MTA representatives we would you to consider the following points regarding Dwarka.

The aim of this Forum is to make Dwarka an Ideal Township, to fight for common cause & seek solutions of day-to-day civic problems of Dwarkaites by raising awareness among the Residents & by taking up issues with relevant authorities from time to time. It is thus the voice of the Dwarkaites & surely extends.

1. SAFE DRINKING WATER FOR DWARKA

Background:
a. DJB refuses to take over supply from DDA (Refer MoM of DDA-DJB)

b. Dwarka does not get water through pipelines (Refer Water tanker expenditure)

c. Supply of potable & non potable water is by DDA and NOT DJB (Refer RTI info on quantity supplied by DJB to DDA as bulk and higher charges)

d. Current water supply by DJB to DDA is approximately 2-3 MGD (vary) rest of the demand met from Ground Water from Najafgarh Drain plains (not potable by any standards)

e. Currently DJB charges Rs. 8.53 from DDA and DDA gives it at Rs.10.76 for piped supply. While supplying through tanker this is raised @ Rs 558 each tanker from Apartments RWA. While NDMC supplies 480 ltr per day per person while a few parts of Dwarka get 70 ltr that too non potable water)

g. Dwarka water supply over 1000 crore spend by DDA/MuD for pipe network/ug/og/booster pumps etc. All getting rusted and wasted.

Dwarka Demands:
We urge to include this in the Manifesto ensure DJB to take over water distribution of Dwarka with immediate effect. As the entire network of habituated sectors fully ready and agreed by DDA.
As far as rates are concerned Dwarka is ready to bear the competitive rate as prevailing in Delhi for NDMC, DCB area.

Ensure equal distribution of available Delhi water: Please note even the CAG in its Audit report No 2 of the year 2013 of DJB have asked for equal distribution.

Dwarka 100% planned sub-city to implement any kind of recycling or dual supply and highest concentration of water harvesting etc. This calls for DJB to have special test and trial programmes ideal for Dwarka and then to rest of Delhi as it is possible with less cost.

2. DDA/Ministry of Urban Development - for Dwarka

Entry / Exit Points

* All 3 ENTRY/EXIT points namely Sector 21, Palam and Dabri Mode are congested beyond imagination and the residents are having a e horrifying time dealing with traffic.

* Internal Roads – To construct roundabouts rather than have more Red lights!

* Create a new ROB over Palam Railway Crossing or widen the existing Palam-Dwarka Fly over

* Speed up the acquiring and completion of Dwarka Express Way connecting to Northern Peripheral Way to Gurgaon/Manesar.

Master Plan of Dwarka:a. Planning and Implementation failures.

b. Pre habitation facilities lacking:
* No Vegetable/Fruits Markets till date
* Delay in Community Halls Projects by DDA while SDMC build two
* Progress on District Centre
* The Service Sector 20 is converted to Commercial use and NO SERVICE related usage till date allotted.

c. Parking Issues:
* The ECS (Equal Car Space per 100 Sq Mtr)– Parking are not available in LSC , Sector markets and Institutional areas. The local JE/AE/EE to prepare a list of buildings in Dwarka and submit the same to hierarchy for not keeping ECS.
* Multi Level parking project to be implemented for Sector 6/10, 4/5/11/12 markets
* The LSC Private buildings reserved basement parking are not open to public. Till the same is not opened ask Building department to seal those malls.

d. Incomplete Projects:
* Bharat Vandana Park- No sign of implementation- Only a boundary wall and remain area handed over to DMRC for construction.
* Uncompleted Roads connecting various parts especially sector 24,25,26 and Dwarka-Palam Vihar Expressway.
* Convention Centre with DLF cancelled, what is the status.
* The Socio Culture Centre at Sector 11 no progress found on ground..

e. Sports Complex:
* The only Sports Club at Sector 11 is overcrowded, the Project @ Sector 8, 19 and 23 no progress & no sign will be ready in another 5 years.

g. Maintenance of Master Plan Sub-City:
* The Dwarka boast of wide roads and Service lanes, Drains, Pedestrian paths. These are not maintained properly and timely. Rs. 30 crore allotted 3 years back for Dense carpeting, still remain on papers.

* The pedestrian paths are not designed as per latest UTTIPEC guidelines

* Not a single HAF (Housing Area Facility) Developed by DDA till date. The vacant lands are prone to encroachments.

3. South Delhi Municipal Corporation - for Dwarka
1. The SDMC-Damini Cremation Ground: We learned that this place is illegally occupied by some NGO and harassing the general public at the time of when family mourns. DF has proposed numerous suggestions to improve this cremation ground to be one of the best and we are ready to cooperate and assist in all matters. (Enclosures in details)

2. The Sanitation Garbage collection: We learned that the sanitation of Dwarka is going to be, again, handed over to some private parties or NGO. We would like to see the documents and would appeal to the SDMC to take the RWA/CGHS/MTA along before finalizing this contract - as RWA/MTA/CGHS are stakeholder in this and without consulting us it will be repeat of the same situation as prevailed pre-April 2012. (Please see the MoM of 2011)

a. The SDMC-NGZ should improve the present system which is far better than pre 2012 and we whole heartedly appreciated and support the SDMC. The Gate to Gate (actually not door to door in Dwarka) to be made reachable to Markets and neighboring villages.

b. For segregated garbage collection the SDMC should award incentives to CGHS/RWA by way of Manure, Garbage Bags, Green Certificate. Initial 6-12 Months the SDMC should sponsor the segregated collection from each flats. Once established the respective RWA/CGHS manage its own.

c. The C&D waste: In-spite the MSWHR 2000 there is no progress on part of the SDMC to have C&D waste collection from Dwarka. This results in huge pile of C&D wastes on vacant plots and road sides. Designated small plots to be taken over from DDA for this purpose. The above DC-CE meeting will be in that direction.

d. Mechanized Sweeping: Currently only few roads are swept by CITY SWEEP. The roads including service roads from 12 to 100 mtr must be given to them. The roads such as Dwarka Link road from Sector 21 Metro Station till NH8 is not swept by SDMC till date, similarly the Dwarka- Palam Flyover to Domestic.

e. Safai Karmachari's: We have been demanding SHELTOR for them from beginning - till date no progress on this issue. Timely salary disbursement to SK's is also important to motivate them. Appreciate this could be taken on priority. Another issue - the SK Biometric Attendance, we have been told this has stopped, if so this must continue. The SK's are rarely seen in some place and in those places one could see them only upto 11 AM only. The neighborhood RWA be authorized to check the muster roll on random. The name, photo of respective SK must be displayed for each road or sections or Pocket or Markets prominently. DF will help in putting boards in this matter. The respective ASI, SI name mobile numbers must be displayed at each road junctions so that grievance of RWA/CGHS/MTA could immediately contact in case of SK is absent or non- clean roads/areas.

f. Regular collection of Dead Leaves- Malba and making Dwarka Non Pollution Zone. SDMC jointly with DDA could change and improve the Dwarka and as MODEL match with NDMC or other foreign cities if this could be improved jointly.

4. Projects in Dwarka: The Bijwasan- Chawla RoB construction inordinate delay causes huge jam for Dwarka Link Road. The other projects of SDMC not published or shared with Dwarka. No Urinal Projects for Dwarka by SDMC. DF was requested by SDMC/DDA to identify the site and location, which DF provided. The pathetic condition of cremation project as explained in para 1. Dwarka Forum whole heartedly appreciates the super-efficient SDMC engineering team for completion of Community Halls in Sector 12, 22 and 23. However, there is no proper mechanism of booking the halls and keep the halls under maintenance, upkeep and most importantly respecting the neighboring apartments not to put inconvenience. The building department of SDMC has cleared buildings in Ramphal Chowk area without mandatory provisions of Parking, setback and most importantly safety of visitors. The MTA of Ramphal chowk allege that SDMC collected huge cash for Parking and conversion without providing basic facility.

5. Health Trade: The SDMC issued license to ENCROACH on DDA public Land and Footpaths across Dwarka? The catering vans and others encroach on DDA Public Land. When the land is not under SDMC how could SDMC issue license for such encroachment an example is Sector 21 Metro Station a catering van came up end of Feb 2014 with help of SDMC. Similarly there are numerous restaurants and take away run from Dwarka without health trade license. There is no drain/sewer connection to most. Those who have take away license run full restaurant from open area. This is serious security hazard.

6. Property Tax: As you may be well aware with hyper density the Dwarka earns maximum revenue for SDMC for Property Tax. In return Dwarka get no benefit as such. What is more annoying is that the records of Property Tax for Dwarka is not computerized and harassment by Property Tax whenever asked for details, ledger or accounts etc. This requires complete over haul. A substantial over 55% of property tax of Dwarka as per records paid are through internet that makes it easy for SDMC to computerize with existing and update the records in a real time basis.

7. Street Dogs: There is growing canine population noticed in Dwarka and hardly any measures are taken in this matter.

4. DDA Civil issues:
1. Roads- All MP/30/20mtr and internal roads repairs following severe damage during the monsoon.
2. All JE/AE be directed to inspect all Manholes / Drain Slabs on footpaths/pedestrian paths and find solution to cover them with anti-theft materials.
3. All the footpaths that were damaged or digged and restoration work not excuted were to be complted in time bound manner.
4. Remove all the silt/malba lying around most of the roads/footpaths under DDA jurisdiction to C&D waste plant or some empty plots.

Horticulture:
1. Plantation of trees/shrubs/hedges where ever on all roads where the causality found.
2. Proper cutting of Tree branches on central verge infront of traffic signal lights.
3. Regular cutting of shrubs/hedges on various roads and parks.

Electrical:
1. All Master Plan Roads Street light poles to be Numberd and indicate the Helpline/Contact No of DDA Division to report non functioning.
2. A joint survey be held by DDA/BSES and respective area Beat Constable for finding non functional street lights.
3. The Project work of Park Light installation at very slow pace need to speed up.

Water :
1. Water Supply from DJB and distribution status be shared with RWA monthly basis.
2. Reduce the water waste from Command Tank filling and while Tankers move around to supply.
3. Test all Pipes and reduce the water tanker supplies.

5. General Issues for which Candidates assurance required:

In addition to the above, members of Dwarka Forum are keen to get your party and candidate views on various issues & problems being faced by Dwarka residents. We solicit your action plan & commitment towards resolution of following issues & problems:

1. Acute water scarcity in Dwarka in terms of availability & unequal distribution
2. Frequent electricity breakdowns. Poor street lighting
3. Non-existent public transportation between different sectors
4. DTC's poor & infrequent connectivity to West, Central, South Delhi & Gurgaon
5. Deteriorating Law & Order in Dwarka- Need Police posts in every sector with enough police personnel
6. Poor traffic management. Need traffic lights at more intersections & more traffic policeman.
7. Public Hospitals –Delay in multi-specialty Hospital. No General referral Hospital in Dwarka
8. Authorised Vegetable / Fruit markets in different sectors
9. Regular sweeping of all roads / footpaths. Mechanized Night Sweeping for main roads
10. Proper Parking facility including multi-level near commercial markets
11. Recently, Dwarka Court & DCP-SW offices have become functional in Dwarka. For the convenience of Dwarka residents, offices of South West zone / division of DDA, MCD, RCS, RTO, etc. should be shifted to central Dwarka
12. More Public Convenience outlets should be opened throughout Dwarka sectors
13. Permanent disposal for Construction/Repair Malba in all sectors.
14. Public Library
15. Recreational facilities like Cinema halls / Multiplex. More sports complexes.
16. Multiple Community centres in different sectors
17. Development of Dwarka Delhi Haat and Cofee Home
18. Completion of Bharat Vandana Park
19. Currently, Dwarka citizens & nearby areas are required to vote for 4 MLA's & 2 MP's. Dwarka constituency should be unified & should represent genuine Dwarka citizens.
20. To maintain unique character of Dwarka Sub City & address its unique problems, Dwarka Municipal Corporation should be created on the lines of NDMC & DCB.

Your views / commitment / action plan would be widely shared & publicised among opinion makers of Dwarka Forum within 7 days of receipt of this letter. This would enable them to make informed choice in coming Elections.

Dwarka Forum would like to extend its wishes to all the candidates of parties and look forward to working with the winner irrespective of which party the candidate belongs to.

The capital of India is adorned with colours of red and immense joy of celebrating Indian Mother Goddess. The auspicious festival runs with strong belief and faith in the heart of every human being. To make the joy of festival more enjoyable Creativity Art Gallery is presenting their new exhibition as “Divine Collection”. Often we think of bringing the lights of blessings, happiness and prosperity to our home and to fulfil that we do our best part and possible.

So this Navaratri bring home a hand painted idol of Indian Mythological episodes and icons. Today in our modern houses we often hesitate to place oleographs or to common things, this collection of Creativity Art Gallery will help our modern buyers to buy their best paintings with best prices too.

The collection for this show is exclusively chosen in concern to feed the true meanings of show title. Paintings from different artists are collected from various parts of India and subjects are specially preferred to be the icons of Hindu Mythology. The gallery is confident in saying that we are helping to stream the aspect of divinity in terms of contemporary thoughts.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

In a recent Workshop, a comment by one of my friends in the developmental sector said something that got me thinking. We were talking about a civil society advocacy group for Water. She asked me whether I wanted to be part of that group. I immediately said “Yes – any group that cares for Water is a group I’d like to be part of.” Then I asked her who the other members were. She reeled off some names. I was familiar with them and so, without thinking, I said, “ Oh- the Anti-Privatization group?’ She looked at me speculatively and replied, “ Yes…though we too are part of it.” Then more suspiciously, she asked ” Are you pro-privatization or Against?”

I was stumped for a moment and then said the only thing that came to my mind “ I am pro – Water for All”

I remembered another time, another place when a government official had made a similar statement – equally suspiciously – “ Outsourcing is not the same as privatization –I hope you can appreciate the difference?”

As I sat back today and thought about these questions and my answer, I wrote this blog randomly – just penned down my thoughts as they came….

I am neither an activist, nor an expert on Water, I am a student – a ‘shishyaa’ – of Water. As I go through the rituals of the work that I do for Water issues, one part of me watches and analyses Water in the different situations It finds itself in. Each time I marvel at the amazing resilience of Water… the calm grace with which it allows adverse situations to play themselves out. One of the things that I have learnt from It is to assimilate every thought that comes my way. Water treats nothing as good or bad. It is as receptive to poison as it is to nectar. It labels neither. It leaves the labeling to the user. For example, a colony of bacteria in a sewage filled pond probably labels the Water as ‘Excellent –A + category Health drink” while we will label it ‘Highly polluted – E category – unfit for use”

And that brings me back to my friend’s question and my answer. I think, the answer to whether private involvement in Water is good or bad will vary, depending on who is answering it. And also will be determined by the circumstances in which private involvement is brought in.

Where the government system works efficiently, with decision making based on rational parameters, compliance is ensured and where sustainability of the water system is planned for, there, perhaps, private support is not needed. In such a place, the internal dynamism of the government supplier will ensure that Water for All becomes a reality.

But what of where the government’s water decision making gets influenced by irrational pressures? Or when it is not able to invest in infrastructural improvements needed to make the system work as required. When the price paid for its inefficiency, is unsustainable pressure on the source and non availability of water for people? Perhaps this is where the choices open up and so, the debate starts.

If you ask those who are deprived of Water, they say that the first and most important need is to make water available for all. The choice of mode of delivery and its management system must be decided based on what serves this need best. In many villages, NGOs supply safe drinking water to people. The polluted village lake has been given as their source of raw water, they have been given some financial support for the capital investment. The operational costs of the system are recovered through a price they charge for the treated water. The pricing is very reasonable, the water quality is good and a local person gets a livelihood running the system. But, in a way, this is a form of privatization – infact the worst kind where the source itself has been given away – so is this good or bad?

Those who argue for private involvement in Water management come armed with a huge bunch of facts and figures to prove its impact on efficiency. Those who argue against it come equally armed with examples of failed experiments and figures to prove that we are playing into the hands of profit making entities. Each is passionate and absolute in his belief.

What irony …formless Water – the universal solvent, reflecting all that is around it – …. Loved passionately by lovers - rigid, exclusive and with doors firmly shut on each other.

The truth is, there are no sides – we are all on the side of Water. Water must be allowed to do what it is best at – slaking the thirst of any living being that needs it. It must not be held hostage by any entity or ideology. With open minds and pure intent we must together identify the method or combination of methods that ensures this.

So, Jal Rakshaks, whatever be your belief on how best to care for Water, count me in as a fellow care-giver. In the world of Water, every belief has its space.Jyoti Sharma, President – ForceForum for Organised Resource Conservation and Enhancement is a New Delhi, INDIA based NGO.

Objective of FORCE is to create awareness about natural resources– their use, misuse, current status and future scenario and to ensure adoption of measures to prevent their depletion.

About author : Has worked in India and abroad in several countries and is now in Delhi- North India monitoring the historical people movement for an Ecological Swaraj.Thanks to Supreme court in asking Sunil Gavaskar to take over to clean the game. Gavaskar who has the record and courage to face bouncers on the field during his cricket tenure has a strong secular moral record outside the field in Public.( It is on media records that Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar had to come out on streets to save Muslims getting attacked in his apartment block during 2002 communal riots .)

The tenure of Mr. Shivlal Yadav and Mr. Gavaskar, however brief like Delhi-49 days AAP Government, it shall be an opportunity to clean up the BCCI’s affairs. By disclosing his honest interest in advance — that he had a contract as a commentator with the BCCI –India`s best opening batsman has got off the mark with a touch of accountability and a class. For a corruption free Cricket administration, Gavaskar needs to bring in his old field qualities — the courage to evade a barrage of bouncers, the guts to carry on without the protection of a helmet and the instinct to know where the ball shall come, where the fielder is and where his stump is.

All stakeholders with sportsmen spirit must accept the blame for the Cricket reaching such a shameful climax that the country’s highest court has had to intervene and make arrangements to run cricket without a taint or suspicion. The Board in the past displayed fear and doubts in implementing anti-corruption transparent measures and failed to act on the evidences of spot fixing.

Captain M.S. Dhoni who was tainted and nor spared was driven by obvious conflict of interest, joined the chorus before the Supreme Court-appointed Mukul Mudgal Committee that Gurunath Meiyappan was not the owner or principal of CSK, but only a cricketing enthusiast.

Supreme Court order asking the former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar as interim head of the Board of Control for Cricket in India to manage the bad affairs of the Indian Premier League this year is cheered by players, administrators, stakeholders and fans alike. Removal of N. Srinivasan, who had refused to step down as president of the Board despite his position getting over and outdated long ago is the happy outcome. The judgement also addresses the conflict of interest between Mr. Srinivasan’s double role of a franchise and as head of the national cricket body. Court has directed that none associated with India Cements should be part of the BCCI. Two former Test cricketers — Shivlal Yadav and Sunil Gavaskar will discharge the BCCI president’s functions. Gavaskar, role will be limited to IPL operations this year. Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, the two franchises who were dragged in the scandal, will stay in the tournament.

In Cricket the public pressure, transparency and participation of both rich-poor shall never allow the game to die. With right to recall the old players and Managers driven by hidden business interests shall get replaced. Millions hope Supreme Court tries to rescue and clean with same speed the hidden Cricket played by Politicians-Corporate nexus in India.For details see my article in the same columns title-STOP CORPORATE MATCH FIXING : APPLY CRICKET SWARAJ. My appeal & article in these columns is to rescue Cricket from billionaires club and bring it to the Public Domain which needs 100% attention.

In cricket as a popular sport thanks to transparency and collective pressure put up by rich and poor audience the score board cannot be hidden. This game still has fair rules. It remains more transparent then the `political cricket` played by billionaires in the production units and factories. During Production the score board in the factories indicating fixed audit is tempered and manipulated to ease out black money to Tax Heavens.

The five female artists from Pakistan and four contemporary female artists from India are jointly exhibiting their paintings for the first time .The core idea of this venture is to create the sense of amalgamation. With the provision of sharing lifestyle the artists will be provided scope to interact with Indian youths by going to college, schools and other habitat places.

Youths are marked as the energy engines of a country and in a paternal country where male dominance and male priority runs on the high note, Empowerment's this endeavour will not only set the par norms of the current society but also will provide the visual panorama.

This exhibition is based on focusing few intangible factors like share, emotion, peace, feminism and love. Share is one of the prior holds which exhibition is hoping to promote. While we say cultural share evolve of art and culture goes in front. With the plan of interaction and cultural share emotions will flaunt to peace in the country.

Empowerment is assembling 9 female artists on board to project the women’s power in a global form. Weather its India or Pakistan, we all knows that women’s of a country not only projects the fertility and love but also shows the solidity of countries culture and mannerism.

Colours of Hope is an exhibition aims to grow a language of unity and love where the art and culture will show the visual culture of two countries on single arena. Empowerment plans to organize many such programs and have people to people connect bringing the artists, youths from the India and Pakistan together and promote interaction and dialogue that begins with art and culminates in better understanding, empathy and love for each other.

About the ShowEmpowerment feels privileged to share that it is inviting 5 Pakistan women artists to visit India for 6 days and take part in an art exhibition alongwith 4 renowned artists of India. Below are the details of the program. We seek your kind support for the coverage of the event. ABOUT COLOURS OF HOPE-India Pakistan Women Artists Art Exhibition Empowerment (NGO) is organizing “Colours of Hope” from 28th March to 2nd of April, 2014 at Azad Bhavan Art Gallery, ICCR New Delhi to be inaugurated on the 28th March at 5.00p.m. It brings together on one common platform, established and young 5 Pakistan and 4 Indian women artists to exhibit 3 works each. Participating Artists from Pakistan are: Ayesha Durrani, Fizza Saleem, Amna Ilyas, Romessa Khan and Mariam Khan. Artists from India are Gogi Saroj Pal, Seema Kohli, Nupur Kundu, Sonika Agarwal. Also artist fraternity is invited to create on the spot 10mt. long canvas on the theme “Colours of Hope”. Pakistan women artists are invited to stay for 6 days from 27th March to 1st April. During their stay they would visit schools, colleges and interact with the students and youths of the country. This will set the stage for a unique interaction between highly charged minds from various backgrounds, styles and schools of thought.

Show Details:28th March to 2nd of April, 2014 Azad Bhavan Art Gallery, ICCR , New Delhi

Ramalinga Adigalar also known as Thiru Arutprakasa Vallalar lived in the mid 19th century between 1823-1874. He propagated the principle of worshipping Shiva in the form of a Jyothi. His songs were aimed at proliferating the thought of ‘unity in diversity’ through a spiritual path. His songs evoke a unique feeling of supreme bliss with their beauty, richness and simplicity of Tamil language. He has mainly written songs on Lord Shiva and Lord Muruga.

College cultural events are some of the most happening events in the city. As vibrant as the city is, the college festivals of Mumbai too are vibrant, where highly energetic students bringing youth under the same platform, enhance social interaction and facilitate exchange of cultural ideas and thoughts. The Cultural Festival of Rajiv Gandhi College is a prism, where college students find an array of events and activities to participate in like fashion shows, Bollywood dance, folk opera, ultra violet dance event, film making and many more.

First Indian Playboy Girl Shanti Dynamite and Actress Meghna Patel were seen having fun at College festival where Vishal and Shekhar setting the stage on fire. Actress Meghna Patel said, “It was a memorable festival at Rajiv Gandhi College. Students were so energetic and creative. I wish them all luck.” Purani Jeans star cast performed in front of a packed audience and wish everyone all the best for their Future. Tanuj Virmani said, “It was an awesome experience to be the part of this wonderful festival it’s reminds me of my college days.” The Rajiv Gandhi festival boasts unique creativity, passion and vibrancy.Shanti Dynamite shared her views she said, “The Rajiv Gandhi explores a whole new culture I wish that this festival celebrated with great 'clat worldwide. I enjoy it very much.”

Shekhar, Tanuj Virmani and Vishal at Cultural Festival of Rajiv Gandhi College

Zodiac, a Cultural Festival being organised by the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology. Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RGIT) is a leading institution established in Mumbai, with the aim of promoting research oriented advanced courses in the field of engineering. It is affiliated to the University of Mumbai. This highly popular and respected event is attended by a host of colleges from all over Mumbai. Over 15,000 students have participated in the different activities of the festival.

Overland Park, KS, USA (March 14, 2014) At the Asia-Pacific Quality Network (APQN)Conference, www.apqn.org, held in Hanoi, Vietnam on March 7-8, Douglas Viehland, Executive Director of ACBSP, was part of a panel discussion titled: "Quality Assurance Across Borders: Different Models for Education/ Different Models for Quality Assurance." Other panelists included Professor Lee Keng-Mun, William, Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) and Erika Soboleva, The Agency for Higher Education Quality Assurance and Career Development (AKKORK), Russia. Dr. Jan Cameron, Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA), New Zealand was the moderator (pictured standing).

During the panel discussion, Viehland described how the ACBSP Standards and Criteria and processes are structured to create a global standard that can be achieved by business schools no matter their location in the world.

At a session held the next day, Viehland described a “path to innovation” that has led ACBSP from an organization with 370 members in 2003 to one with more than 1,220 member campuses in 56 different countries in 2014.

“We have adopted an existing quality standard used by businesses, creating a system-wide accreditation process for large systems,” said Viehland. “We also have innovative processes in place that support success, such as assigning mentors, holding site team consensus calls, and sharing self-studies as best-practice examples with candidates for accreditation,” he said.

“ACBSP also established a cohort accreditation process for a group of 10 schools in Mongolia. This group is setting a standard of excellence in business education in the Asia Pacific region,” Viehland said. “The Institute of Finance and Economics (IFE) was the first school in Mongolia to achieve accreditation through ACBSP in 2012. There are now 19 member campuses in Mongolia, three of which are accredited and 15 more are in candidacy for accreditation,” he said.

The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) www.acbsp.org, is the only global accrediting body to accredit business, accounting, and business-related programs at all degree levels.

N K Bagrodia Public School, Sector-4, Dwarka celebrated its Annual Cultural Event, BALSABHA, a creative extravaganza of Pre-School and Pre- Primary Classes on 16th and 17th March in school auditorium. The theme for Pre-School “Objects our inspiration ”potrayed the reflections of simple objects as a source of inspiration for the children living in todays world of concrete jungle .They beautifully depicted the relevance in retro and present context.The splendid performances of tiny tots was applauded by the gathering.

The theme for the Pre- Primary students “PANCHATATVA” portrayed the different fragrances of five elements of life on one platform through their dance and skit. The relevance of each element was put forth in a colourful and heart rendering display. The Pre- Primary graduates beautifully bid adieu to the Junior Wing and the two-day event culminated with lots of energy, affection and tears. The members of the managing committee graced the occassion and encouraged the tiny tots. Ms. Satinder K. Singh gave a welcome address and apprised the august gathering with achievement and accolads of the by gone academic session. It was well-appreciated by one and all. Dr. Rajee N Kumar, Principal of N K Public School, also rendered words of encouragement to the tiny tots.

India Goalkeeper Karanjit Singh is a vital cog in the wheel for Airtel I-League contenders Salgaocar who are hot on their trail recovering from a mid-season slump to now breathing down the neck of leaders Bengaluru FC with only three points separating the two at the moment.

In a freewheeling interview with www.the-aiff.com, the 28-year old Punjab lad, who has kept the most number of clean sheets this season, speaks about his Team’s chances, their rock-solid backline, how the winter break has helped him and much more. EXCERPTS:

You have started the New Year on a very bright note keeping five of your nine clean sheets in 2014. What different have you done?The break prior to the second phase of the Airtel I-League really helped. We sat down during the break as a Team, analysed and worked collectively on our weaknesses. We went through earlier match videos as part of the preparation and that has helped to a great extent.

How much has the back four of Nicolau Coalco, Chika Wali, Augustin Fernandes and Mathew Foschini helped?The Team’s first line of defence is our forward line. The back four named above have been exceptional and thereby reduced the pressure on me to a great extent. Our midfielders have also ably assisted the defence.

Which among the Airtel I-League teams have you found the going most difficult against standing under the bar?Undoubtedly, Shillong Lajong FC! Their forwards were great in the return leg at Tilak Maidan. They have a great sense of positioning and are capable of creating opportunities out of nothing. This Airtel I-League has by far been the most competitive in recent times and a lot of the Teams have posed a lot of threat. Any Team is capable of beating the other on any given day.

Do you agree that Salgaocar have peaked at the right time?We started the Airtel I-League well. However, we did slump in between but are most certainly back on track having won 16 of the possible 18 points and am hopeful we continue with this good form going into the last 4 matches of the season.

What is the mood in the team at the moment? Knowing that you cannot afford any more slipups, how different is it from playing a first-round match?It is always good when you are winning. The mood currently is excellent and most importantly the Players are playing for each other. The mood in the dressing room is what translates into performances on the pitch.

How important is it to have a proper Goalkeeping Coach at a Club?It is vital to have a proper and regular Goalkeeping Coach at a Club. Viru-sir (Virender Singh) was a great Player during his playing days and more importantly makes for a great Coach. I feel lucky and blessed to have him as a Coach, mentor and a guide. I have learnt a lot from him. I am also thankful and grateful to Derrick Pereira for the invaluable guidance and support which has enabled me perform to the best of my ability this season.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Udaipur, World Living Heritage Festival 2014 (WLHF 2014) which concluded recently at The City Palace, Udaipur on March 16, 2014 brought together experts from all over the world that spoke, discussed and shared their views about the concept of ‘Living Heritage’. Some of the eminent speakers included Ms. Moe Chiba, Programme Specialist for Culture, UNESCO New Delhi, Ms. Minja Yang, President & Professor at Raymond Lemaire International Centre for Conservation, KU/ Leuven (Belgium) and Dr. Ravina Aggarwal, Ford Foundation.

The conference thus intended to deliberate the question of living heritage from multiple angle –urban heritage space; people and their traditional practice; and how to orchestrate these heritage assets to contribute to the city’s overall development. The recommendations by the experts suggest that the promotion of living heritage is no other than envisioning a more human process of development that caters to people’s aspiration and well-being.

Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar, the 76th custodian of the Mewar dynasty in Udaipur, who has been the driving force behind this festival, was lauded for his efforts in bringing together this event. Shriji was also called as the ‘Father of Living Heritage Movement’ in the country during the event. He said, “Living Heritage is an integral part of our lives. WLHF II began with the vision of converting the abstract into real practices in-tune with the present world realities. The second edition of the World Living Heritage Festival was hugely successful and even more participative, something that we take note of with great pride. This is but a small step towards conserving our living heritage and I’m optimistic that the Festival has provided all of us with the right platforms to move forth in our mission.” The House of Mewar prides itself on being the torchbearer of the Living Heritage movement in India and strongly believes and advocates the participation of the local community in gathering momentum for this cause. The City Palace, is a testimony to this belief, as both the tangible and intangible aspects of heritage are present here.

King Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur - lake place

The speakers at the WLHF 2014 concluded that living heritage is not an optional extra; it is a part of our persona. The value of cultural motifs, folk tunes and themes for message dissemination purposes is being progressively realized. The experts believed that what is needed is a massive campaign to explain to urbanites the need of living heritage for urban survival. They also echoed the fact that Udaipur has every chance to become a model city to this end, if its natural and cultural heritage assets are adequately taken account in the urban planning with the participation of local communities.

Udaypur Holi festival Malini Awasti

The event came to a colourful end with the traditional Holika Dahan celebrations in Udaipur, to mark the traditional Indian festival celebrating spring – Holi. The House of Mewar, acknowledged as the world's oldest-serving dynasty, has faced challenges, which have tested the maintenance of the Custodianship form of governance and the Custodian's commitment to carry on serving as The Diwan of Shree Eklingnath ji.

In 1947 with India's Independence and again in 1971, with the abolition of Princely Privileges, the office of the Custodian necessitated reinventions. In 1984 the mantle of 76th Custodian devolved upon Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur. The original status of Custodian, as provided in the Constitution of India, ceased to exist. The challenge, therefore, for Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur was to bring the different identities of inheritance under one umbrella.

Eternal Mewar is conceptualized to provide the vision for the 21st century, it expresses, embodies and encompasses the core values, principles and the legacy of the House of Mewar. Eternal Mewar covers all the activities of the House of Mewar. Eternal Mewar has also emerged as a unique heritage brand exemplifying hospitality, cultural preservation, philanthropy, education, sports & spirituality for global audiences..

Picture profile of Nasirpur Link drain flowing behind DDA flats. Its a storm water drain but the picture shows it is covered with garbage. It seems from the picture that storm water drain has been converted into a sewer drain. This needs to be checked to keep the storm water drain, a storm water drain.

Time is really the only capital that any human being has, and the only thing he can’t afford to lose. -- Thomas Edison

He that has time has life. -- Anonymous

Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time. -- Jim Rohn

Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend. ~Theophrastus

All that really belongs to us is time; even he who has nothing else has that. ~Baltasar Gracian

Time is the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have, and only you can determine how it will be spent. Be careful lest you let other people spend it for you. ~Carl Sandburg

The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot. -- Michael Altshuler

Those who make the worse use of their time are the first to complain of its shortness. ~Jean De La Bruyere

The great dividing line between success and failure can be expressed in five words: “I did not have time. ~Franklin Field

Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein. -- H. Jackson Brown

Time and tide wait for no one. ~Irish Proverb

The great French Marshall Lyautey once asked his gardener to plant a tree. The gardener objected that the tree was slow growing and would not reach maturity for 100 years. The Marshall replied, ‘In that case, there is no time to lose; plant it this afternoon!’ ~John F. Kennedy

We say we waste time, but that is impossible. We waste ourselves. -- Alice Bloch

One thing you can’t recycle is wasted time. ~Author Unknown

Lost wealth may be replaced by industry, lost knowledge by study, lost health by temperance or medicine, but lost time is gone forever. -- Samuel Smiles

He lives long that lives well; and time misspent is not lived but lost. ~Thomas Fuller

God exists in eternity. The only point where eternity meets time is in the present. The present is the only time there is. ~Marianne Williamson

Yesterday is a cancelled check; tomorrow is a promissory note; today is the only cash you have. Spend it wisely. ~Anonymous

Never let yesterday use up today. ~Richard H. Nelson

Whether it’s the best of times or the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got. ~Art Buchwald

Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn’t buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure? -- Anonymous

It’s not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, what are we busy about? -- Henry David Thoreau

The key is in not spending time, but in investing it. ~Stephen R. Covey

Don’t be fooled by the calendar. There are only as many days in the year as you make use of. One man gets only a week’s value out of a year while another man gets a full year’s value out of a week. -- Charles Richards

Those who know the value of time use it in preparation for eternity. ~Dugnet

Ordinary people think merely of spending time. Great people think of using it. -- Author Unknown

Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of. ~Benjamin Franklin

Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity. -- Henry Van Dyke

You don’t need a watch to know when it’s time to die. -- Yiddish Proverb

CONCLUDING MESSAGE FOR ALL:-
Be kind to all who deserve kindness because "Kindness is a language which even the blind can see and even the deaf can hear". – Rajendra Dhar

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Colours of hope is an exhibition aims to grow a language of unity and love where the art and culture will show the visual culture of two countries on single arena.

About the showABOUT COLOURS OF HOPE-India Pakistan Women Artists Art Exhibition Empowerment (NGO) is organizing “Colours of Hope” from 28th March to 2nd of April, 2014 at Azad Bhavan Art Gallery, ICCR New Delhi to be inaugurated on the 28th March at 5.00p.m. It brings together on one common platform, established and young 5 Pakistan and 4 Indian women artists to exhibit 3 works each. Participating Artists from Pakistan are: Ayesha Durrani, Fizza Salem, Amna Ilyas, Romessa Khan and Mariam Khan. Artists from India are Gogi Saroj Pal, Seema Kohli, Nupur Kundu, Sonika Agarwal.

Show Details:

28th March to 2nd of April, 2014 Azad Bhavan Art Gallery, ICCR , New Delhi To be inaugurated on the 28th March at 5.00p.m.On view from : 28th March to 2nd AprilFrom 10: 30 am to 7:00 pm (media preview) Entry Fee: not required

Subject: Compliant against Government of NCT of Delhi and Delhi Development Authority for Poor and Erratic Water Supply at Dwarka (New Delhi)

Respected Sir,

Human Rights are those basic rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled and which are essential for human existence; access to water is one of the basic one.

When it comes to water; residents of Dwarka, one of the largest residential areas in Asia, in country’s capital are the worst off. The sub-city is dependent on Delhi Development Authority for its water supply. Against a demand of 15 million gallons per day, Dwarka gets around 4-5 million gallons, of which only 1.5 million gallons is supplied by Delhi Jal Board. (Times of India, January 4th 2014) DDA draws the remaining water from tubewells but the shortfall is met by private tankers and many households get water supply only once in two days.

Few shocking data which comes on comparing Dwarka Sub City with NDMC in terms of water supply is below:

*Dwarka’s population is over 6 lacs, While New Delhi Municipal Corporation area has 3 lacs population.

*Dwarka gets 13.1 million gallons water from Delhi Jal Board through DDA while in NDMC area DJB supplies 123 million gallons.

*Almost half the water allocated to Dwarka is diverted to Airport since T3 has started.

*1.95 Kilo Litres water supplied per flat in Dwarka (150 Litres per Day is standard set by Govt’s CPHEEO) while 757 Kilo Litres per flat in NDMC area.

The Supreme Court in A.P. Pollution Control Board II v Prof. M.V. Naidu and Others has ruled thatboth water and sanitation are part of the constitutional right to life (Article 21). The Court has stated that ‘the right to access to clean drinking water is fundamental to life and there is a duty on the state under Article 21 to provide clean drinking water to its citizens’..

Recently the Delhi High Court listening over a PIL over water issues slammed the civic agencies for unplanned concretisation of Delhi without caring about arrangements for water supply. The Delhi Jal Board had told the High Court in the same matter that the drinking water problem in Dwarka would end with the commissioning of a water treatment plant in a few months but the same has not been done as yet.

The problem in Dwarka is of much larger scale as the Sub City is still under development and the present population is yet to reach the half mark vis-a-vis the residential housing. At this current state there is such acute problem that in summer’s which are fast approaching the residents would be getting water supply once in two days. Think of the day when there will fights in between residential colonies over water supply once the population reaches its maximum.

The government and the civic agencies have turned blind eyes and it is frustrating and painful to even think about the situation in rest of country when country’s capital is facing such a huge problem. Everyone talks about development and the same is welcomed but then it has to be sustainable where we should develop the amenities so as to the basic amenities of human existence are not denied.

There have been numerous complaints and letters to the public authorities and government official in the matter but the same has been of no avail. The residents of Dwarka have continued to get a raw deal from both politicians and the government authorities for something as basic a requisite as water that in utter frustration the Federation of CGHS Dwarka has given an ultimatum to the politicians and government agencies and “appealed to the residents of Dwarka to boycott the Lok Sabha elections on April 10th”. There have been numerous newspaper reports on the situation and a lot has come in print and electronic media over these past few months but the same has also been ignored by the public authorities.

It is prayed to you to kindly look into the matter at the earliest and appropriate directions may be issued to the authorities and government to safeguard the basic human right to water and to redress us of our misery. We shall be grateful to your help